WANTED
Mum, dad and their primary school-age child would like to visit Dubai in 2020. They want a relaxing break of five to seven
days, with family-friendly facilities. They have to travel during the school holidays but want to avoid the hottest time of year, so are looking at February half-term or the Easter holidays. And they are flexible about the destination – if an alternative close to Dubai offers better value, they’re happy to consider that. BUDGET: £5,000
THE VERDICT
All three agents produced suitable quotes that matched the budget and requirements. Premier Travel’s enthusiastic agent shared the most information with the shopper, and Tui’s agent also offered lots of detail and personal experience. The three quotes from Fred Olsen Travel were fine but the experience lacked inspiration and failed to excite the shopper.
WINNING AGENT
TRAVEL CONSULTANT rachel horne
I have not been to Dubai myself but my colleagues have visited and
we have spoken about it. We also get feedback from operators and reviews. I took a 15-year break from travel to have children but have come back – it’s like riding a bike.
SCORING SYSTEM
10% Appearance/first impressions 25% Customer service 25% Advice and product knowledge 25% Holiday details 15% Overall experience
premier travel 12 BUTTER MARKET
IMPRESSION: The shop was clean and bright but the desk was covered in other quotes and papers. Staff were smart and displays were clear and legible.
SERVICE: I was dealt with straightaway and given lots of options, explanations and information. The agent knew about the destination and local attractions, plus timings and costs of local transport. While on hold to the supplier, she researched local activities and told me about prices and ticket options. The quotes matched our requirements well and the hotels looked good.
QUOTES: Both quotes were for seven-night breaks with Premier Holidays, flying with Emirates from Stansted in February. The first was the Citymax Hotel Al Barsha on a half-board basis for £3,646. The agent said nearby attractions included a ski centre and shopping mall. The second was for the Amwaj Rotana Jumeirah Beach hotel on a half-board basis for £4,562. I was told we could pay more to upgrade to an all-inclusive basis. We also discussed Atlantis The Palm, which the agent advised was good for families but would be above budget.
OVERALL: I felt well informed. The agent was warm and friendly, and gave me her undivided attention, showing me the attractions and hotels on the computer. She made me feel excited about the holiday options.
85% 54 28 NOVEMBER 2019
travelweekly.co.uk
THIS WEEK’S WINNER
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